Grip Stick by Penguin Magic

Effect

The Grip Stick is a wax-based roughing stick used to make playing cards stick together. When applied to cards, it creates a temporary bond that allows magicians to control card movements invisibly. Spectators see cards vanish, appear, or change places without any visible handling.

Full Details

The Grip Stick is a solid wax block designed for applying a sticky surface to playing cards. It comes in two variants: regular and extra strong. The stick is used to rough cards for effects like the Invisible Deck, Brainwave Deck, and other routines where controlled adhesion is needed. The tutorial includes instructions from Eric Tate and Craig Petty, covering classic rough-and-smooth applications and a cards-across routine.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This product is ideal for magicians who:

• Perform card magic requiring controlled card adhesion.
• Want an alternative to roughing sprays, which can be messy and require ventilation.
• Prefer precise application over full-deck roughing.
• Need a reusable, long-lasting tool for multiple effects.

Difficulty

The Grip Stick is easy to use but requires practice for consistent application. Alex Kirk noted that the regular version requires more pressure to apply compared to other roughing sticks. The extra-strength variant may be preferable for stronger adhesion. The included tutorials make learning straightforward, but magicians should experiment with pressure and coverage for best results.

What Magicians Say

Alex Kirk reviewed the Grip Stick, comparing it to other roughing products. He found it lighter than competitors, requiring more pressure for application. He preferred the extra-strength version for better adhesion. Kirk also mentioned Monster Magic’s Easy Rough as a cheaper alternative but acknowledged the Grip Stick’s durability.

Kirk said, "Personally, I would go with the extra strong... it is just going to be quicker to apply for the amount of strength that you genuinely need." He also highlighted its usefulness for packet tricks and vanishes, calling roughing sticks "really good fun to play with."

For full-deck roughing, Kirk recommended Rust-Oleum Matte Clear Coat as a cost-effective spray alternative. He also suggested Plasti Dip for stage magic, allowing single-card vanishes without full-deck preparation.